The Brotherhood (and Sisterhood) of 'The Life.'

A blog from the Student Life Department of the Word of Life Bible Institute, Owen Sound Campus.
Showing posts with label Word of Life Bible Institute. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Word of Life Bible Institute. Show all posts

Friday, May 4, 2012

Happening Now: Campus Days

Right now those who have come for Campus Days are enjoying Bible Survey Class with resident professor Mr. Jonathan Ward. After that, they will participate in Director's Chapel followed by another class, Romans with Mr. Doug Reider. They will complete their morning with a tour and an info session on the BI including an opportunity to fill out a  BI application.


It is so exciting to see so many young people interested in taking a year to study the Word of God. Please pray that these young men and women and others will consider the importance of studying God's Word for one year!


Thursday, March 29, 2012

Word Studies: Bible Survey

 Class: Bible Survey

Week#: This course spans the entire academic year.
Professor: Mr. Jonathan Ward

Jonathan and Melissa Ward
blog. facebook. wol.
Assignments: Read through each book of the Bible by the assigned class period. Write one chapter title, a sentence of 3-10 words, for every chapter in each book (except for 1 and 2 Chronicles and Proverbs). Write one research paper and one reflection paper per semester. Complete five maps for both the Old Testament and the New Testament.


Jonathan is a graduate of New Brunswick Bible Institute and a former Word of Life Impact Team member (1997-99), and Melissa is a graduate of Lancaster Bible College. Together, they coordinated Word of Life Canada's Impact Team ministry from 2001-2006, with Jonathan training and discipling the Team members and hundreds of speaking opportunities each year. Jonathan now serves as the Dean of Men and is Professor of Bible Survey at the Owen Sound Campus of the Word of Life Bible Institute.

The primary purpose of Bible Survey is to introduce the student to the major people, places, events and teachings contained in both the Old and New Testaments. This course is designed to provide a framework for understanding the rest of biblical truth as well as identify the unique characteristics of each book of the Bible.

Fall Semester
"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:"
2 Timothy 3:16 

As it states in the above scripture, the Old Testament is profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness. Every book was divinely inspired, or God-breathed, even books like Numbers and Leviticus and life application and lessons can be gleaned from their pages. Mr. Ward seeks to make this truth a reality for each and every student. The class is taught everything about the book. Themes, outlines, distinctives and surveys of every book are explained in detail as well as specific and unique attributes.

"Bible Survey has consistently stretched me when it comes to studying the all 66 books of Bible. The amount of knowledge we can learn from studying these books is immense. I really like learning about the history of the books of the bible and digging a little deeper into each one after reading it."
- Kyle, Kitchener




Spring Semester




In New Testament Survey, the students learn about the theme, outlines, and the surveys just like Old Testament Survey; however, Mr. Ward begins the New Testament differently. First, he takes the students through a series of lessons on the historicity of the Bible. After that he teaches through the gospels, expounding on the four pictures of the Son of God presented. As they make their way through the epistles and ending in Revelation, Mr. Ward shows how Christ is the theme of all 29 books. By the time the class has reached completion, the students will look back at what they have covered in the past nine months and be amazed.

"Bible Survey has been a great class. At the beginning of the course, I was unsure about it because history wasn't one of my best subjects. I have learned so much about the importance of context and true interpretation. Having studied the Old Testament in the Fall Semester, I find it is so much easier to understand the New Testament now that I know the basis it's built on!"
- Sarah, Midland


Want to check out Bible Survey for yourself? Come to Campus Days!




Friday, February 24, 2012

Word Studies: Matthew


Class: Matthew

Week #1-2: January 30 - February 10
Professor: Mr. Scott Foreman


Assignments: Read Matthew 1-12 before the end of the first week and Matthew 13-28 before the end of the second week.


Scott serves full-time with the ministry of Word of Life Canada. He is the Associate Director for the Canadian ministry. His responsibilities include oversight of the Owen Sound Camping ministry, Resonate, print, web and media departments. He is a graduate of the first and second year programs of the Word of Life Bible Institute in New York, and a graduate of Tennessee Temple University where he received his B.Sc. in Biblical Studies. He is currently working on his Master’s degree from Baptist Bible Seminary.

"Mr. Foreman did a great job of bringing life to Matthew and helping us understand it. He brought a whole new perspective to the book, showing us that it wasn't just a gospel but something more."
- Tyler, Waterloo


Starting a new semester with the first book of the New Testament is perfect, as the students have a fresh start in all other areas of academics. Matthew is more than just a gospel. It is the message of the Old Testament and the beginning of a new chapter in world history. The book begins with John the Baptist preaching repentence and the kingdom. When Christ enters the picture as the Messiah, the Jews reject Him as the One who was to come.
Even though Christ was ready to set up His kingdom, Israel rejected Him because He was not the type of Messiah they were looking for. Therefore, Christ postponed the kingdom, for now. This begins a whole new dispensation or divine program in world history known today as the church which does not actually begin until Acts chapter 2. Mr. Foreman carefully teaches through these developments found in Matthew. This book is also an amazing glimpse at the life of the Saviour Jesus Christ. His example of humility and servanthood can be applied throughout all life. His sacrifice on the cross and suffering for the world can only push believers to share His love to the world.

"I have really enjoyed the study of Matthew and have been learning many things. What I have probably learned the most so far is the importance of keeping Israel and the church separate. It has been interesting to see how Christ was ready to establish His kingdom but since Israel rejected Him it has been postponed; now we can look forward to His second coming."
- Ryan, Alberta

"I had never really understood the point made by Matthew about the kingdom. But Mr. Foreman helped me comprehend how it fits in the entire gospel."
- Jonathan, Muskoka


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Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Word of Life Missions Conference

The Great Commission

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations,
baptizing them in the name
of the Father,
and of the Son,
and of the Holy Ghost:
Teaching them to observe all things
whatsoever I have commanded you:

and, lo, I am with you alway,
even unto the end of the world.

Amen.

- Matthew 28:19-20

Known to Christians as the last command from the Saviour in Matthew's gospel account, these verses have become the call for believers to dedicate their lives to missions.

Every year, the Word of Life Bible Institute in Schroon Lake NY hosts a missions conference in early January for the BI campuses in Ontario, Quebec and New York. The conference is not only attended by students and staff, but many others as well come for the weekend from across the continent.

The students were very excited to attend the conference which took place January 6-8. They arrived in Schroon Lake on the fifth and were able to attend some of the second year classes the next morning. Friday evening the Missions conference began and so did the conviction of the Word of God in the lives of those attending.

The theme for the weekend was Momentum: the Gospel in Motion. The students had the priviledge of hearing from some inspiring individuals including Dr. Chris Gnanakan, Dmin., PhD., Director of Training for Outreach to Asia Nationals, Mr. Nardi Pugyao, Mr. Harry Bollback, Co-founder of Word of Life and Mr. Don Lough, Executive Director of Word of Life. These speakers preached the Word of God over five sessions, teaching on how the gospel has potential, but it needs to ignite and accelerate (John 13:17, Luke 24:32, Mark 6:34) . However, it cannot do that unless it breaks through opposition at which point it will become unstoppable (1 Cor. 16:9, 2 Cor. 5:9-11). Yet, it cannot be the gospel doing this work, although it is powerful (Romans 1:16). Mr. Lough said the following statement: "It is not God who does not call, it is man who does not respond." The momentum of the gospel can only be fully tapped if the  believer is fully sold out for God. On Sunday night, Mr. Lough petitioned those gathered to completely dedicate their lives to Christ. Many came forward in answer to God's calling in their lives.


The stage was crowded with individuals dedicating themselves to their Saviour.


The conference impacted the lives of many people. Here are just a few thoughts about the weekend:

"At Missions Conference it was cool to see the passions for missions. Each meeting challenged me to think more about how I could reach others for Christ."
- Sarah, Alberta

"Missions Conference was an incredible time to understand what it takes to follow Christ."
- Ryan, Wyoming

"C`était une incroyable experience qui m`a vraiment poussé à réviser ma vue sur la mission en général. J`ai réaliser qu`entant que chrétien nous devons agir activement pour répondre le message du salut dans le monde entier."
"It was an incredible experience that really pushed me to review my way of thinking about missions in general. I realize that as Christians we need to be actively acting for the propagation of the gospel in the entire world."
 - Micael, New Brunswick

"It was awesome to hear from missionaries from all over the world and in different lines of work. It was really encouraging to hear the stories and see how they are all regular people... just like me."
- Cameron, Mount Forest


The Missions Conference is a highlight of the year at the BI. It gives students the opportunity to investigate different missions organizations and to contemplate whether they would be willing to be a part of missions work globally. Actually, the whole year at the BI gives a multitude of opportunities to explore different ministry options and how each person can be involved in the work of God. WOLBI wants to give you those same opportunities.

  Imagine one year at the Word of Life Bible Institute! 
Why not check out campus days? Click here for more information.
Also, if you need to find out if WOLBI is right for you,
 you can always email our admissions coordinator, Cassandra, at cassandrao@wol.ca.

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Thursday, February 9, 2012

MIA (Ministry in Action): Recharge Snow Camp


This past weekend was another awesome Recharge Snow Camp experience. The campus hosted four youth groups from across Ontario reaching a total of over seventy teens. Saturday night saw three campers accept Christ as their personal Saviour and there were reports that more campers made the same decision later in the evening. This is why Word of Life exists: to see young people accept Christ as their personal Saviour.


The speaker this past weekend was WOLBI's  very own Mr. Jonathan Ward. He spoke from the bok of Jude, teaching on how to contend for the faith. Campers were impacted greatly by the power of God's Word.

Jonathan Ward shares God's Word

Snow Camp is probably one of the most stretching and yet exciting times during the BI year. But even though it is difficult at times and the going gets tough, learning to rely on God for strength and seeing lives changed as completely worth the hard work and time that goes into this ministry.

"Recharge is intense! It's great to see the different youth groups come in with many different backgrounds and just be able to talk to and encourage them even in the quick minute conversations. I can see God working more and more each week. It's great."
- Kassey, Goulais River

"Recharge has been awesome! It's great to see kid's accept Christ. I love working with the Maintenance team."
- Tim, Owen Sound

(left to right) Sarah, Maggie, Brittany
Recharge Coffee House Staff





"This is an amazing growth of faith in me; I can see it and I can't wait to come back!"

"It was a wonderful weekend, that has helped me get back in touch with the Lord."

"I liked the atmosphere and the kind, enthusiastic leaders."

Please continue to pray for this ministry as God works in the lives of everyone involved!

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Word Studies: Deuteronomy

Class: Deuteronomy

Week #15: January 9-13
Professor: Pastor Steve Hobbs


Assignments: Read through the Book of Deuteronomy twice during the week; the section on the book of Deuteronomy must be read from the Bible Survey textbook; and the notes from the previous day must be read before the beginning of the next day.

Pastor Steve Hobbs received his BS from Liberty University and an MDiv from Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary. Pastor Hobbs later served as the Dean of Men and on the teaching faculty at the Word of Life Bible Institute in Schroon Lake, NY. He is currently the pastor at Vincent Baptist Church in Pennsylvania.

At first, Deuteronomy does not seem to be to appealing. A book about laws, regulations and tradition is usually not the first choice for a little casual reading. Deuteronomy was written by Moses, at the end of the forty years of wandering the nation of Israel had before entering the land of Canaan. The entire book is a written account of Moses' sermons to his people to encourage them before they entered the promised land. God gave Moses the words and laws to give to the people. Because of the laws and the specific stipulations about how to live, Deuteronomy has become a book in the Bible avoided by most people simply because they do not understand it. However, upon careful study, one will discover that Deuteronomy is filled with powerful, life-changing principles for the believer today. In this class specifically, Pastor Hobbs does an amazing job of bringing out the application from the text and the importance of knowing the principles for Christian living.


"We covered a lot in the Deuteronomy class that challenged me to really think about how the Old Testament and New Testament tie in together and how much we can learn from the ways of the Old Testament."
- Kassey, Goulais River


"He was a very innovative, creative speaker. He helped me look at Deuteronomy in a whole new way. He explained the book in a way that's interesting and applicable to today's society for fellow believers."
- Tyler, Waterloo


"... I will publish the name of the LORD: ascribe ye greatness unto our God. He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he."
- Deuteronomy 32:3-4

BW


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Thursday, February 2, 2012

Word Studies: 1 Corinthians

Class: 1 Corinthians

Week #14: January 2 - January 5
Professor: Dr. Ken Gardoski


Assignments: Read through 1 Corinthians a total of 3 times before the start of classes. Read through the teachers notes before and during the week of classes.


Dr. Ken Gardoski grew up in a religious family, but did not trust the Lord as his Savior until college, and then later became a missionary to Poland with Baptist Mid-Missions. Dr. Gardoski received his BS in Education from Clarion University of Pennsylvania, MDiv and ThM from Baptist Bible Seminary, and PhD from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He currently teaches at Baptist Bible Seminary, Clarks Summit, PA.


1 Corinthians was written by Paul the apostle to the church in Corinth, located in the south of modern day Greece. The city was a way-point for most people traveling between Rome and the Middle East. At the time, Corinth was known as a thriving commercial center and a major seaport, with a population of approximately 700,000. However, Corinth also had another reputation. The city was known for its immorality and debauchery. The worship of pagan gods was extremely common among the populace and the name of the city became an adjective, to corinthinize, which meant to behave in an immoral and sensual manner. This was where Paul started a church and to whom he wrote this letter. From a study of Acts and some of the other epistles, it can be said that 1 Corinthians is most likely the second letter that Paul wrote to this church. As far as can be seen, it is a response to the problems and questions that arose from his first and unknown letter. The main theme found through the entire book is Paul's exhortation to a living a life based on Biblical principles. Many doctrinal and practical implications can be found throughout the text. 1 Corinthians is an excellent book for believers to study, because Paul's explanation of ministry and Christian living is clear and simple.



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BW

Friday, December 23, 2011

WOLBI News!


Why not take a minute or two and read up on the Discipleship that takes place here on campus. The Bible Institute's website has posted an article written by Jonathan Ward, the Associate Dean of Students and Professor of Bible Survey. The article discusses not only what discipleship looks like here at the BI, but also the lasting impact it has on the lives of the students. It includes some testimonies of just a few of the students whose lives have been changed by this incredible ministry.

Check out the article here!


Also remember to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!

Jon & Melissa Ward also have a Facebook Ministry Page for more up-to-date news.

Monday, December 12, 2011

Word Studies: Leviticus

Class: Pastoral Epistles

Week #12: November 28 - December 2
Professor: Dr. Tom Davis


Assignments: Students are to read the book of the Leviticus two times.


Dr. Tom Davis will be teaching you the Book of Leviticus this week. Dr. Davis received his BS in Bible from Lancaster Bible College, an MDiv from Grace Theological Seminary, took Advanced Studies at Jerusalem University College and obtained his PhD from Nova Southeastern University. He is our Academic Dean of the Bible Institute and a Professor at the Schroon Lake, New York, campus.


Leviticus is a tough read. Yet, it is important and needs to be studied. The students have the opportunity to learn about the laws, feasts and the purpose of Leviticus. Dr. Davis does a fantastic job of helping the students discover the purpose of each feast and the laws that God had instituted for Israel. There are so many laws that God put in place for the Jews to follow. One wonders why God is so specific and almost arbitrary in His laws, but God had a point in all this for Israel. The main focus for Leviticus is the core phrase, "Be ye holy (set-apart), as I am holy" (Leviticus 11:45). Almighty God says this to the children of Israel in order to encourage them to be like Him. As New Testament believers in the church, this command is repeated for us in 1 Peter 1:15-16. This is the message of Leviticus and the command from God: to be holy or set apart for the glory of God.




BW

Friday, October 21, 2011

Election Day: The People have Spoken

The excitement has passed. The people have spoken. The votes are in.

Election Day.


The Student Council Members for 2011-2012 at the Word of Life Bible Institute are as follows:


The Right Honourable, his Majesty, President Marcel Van Der Linde

His Lordship, Vice-President Andrew Fehr

The Secretary (of Defence if necessary): Kyle McDonald

The Honourable, Treasurer Brandon Swartzentruber


These individuals formed a political powerhouse and swept away the competition.  It was a landslide victory for Mr. Van Der Linde. Minutes before the voting took place several of the candidates dropped out of the race creating a tense atmosphere. The ballots were counted and the winners were announced. The Members of the Student Council are already settling into their respective positions. The class now looks to these four gentlemen to be the leaders the Student Body needs for the coming weeks and months.

"I'm speechless. This is such an amazing opportunity to lead the Student Body as Secretary (of Defense if necessary) and guide them through many events throughout the year to make this the best year of their lives."
- The Secretary (of Defense if necessary)

"As the president of the Student Council I'm looking forward to a good year filled with awesome events and helping make the students' year as fun as it can be."
- The Right Honourable, his Majesty, the President

Student Council 2011-2012
(left to right) Kyle, Marcel, Brandon, Andrew

With this being the first all-male student council of WOLBI, this year will definitely be very interesting.





Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Upcoming Word of Life Events

Word of Life Fellowship is putting on some fantastic events in the very near future. Be on the lookout for an event on site near you. For information on all Word of Life events in Canada, click here.

Some of the events to look forward to include:

       - WOL Superbowl - This is an all-nighter packed with games, food, prizes and the Gospel.  It's a great night to bring your whole youth group. In Ontario, WOL Superbowl takes place in Mississauga on November 4. Register now!





- Word of Life Bible Institute Campus Days - Come to the Bible Institute campus to check out the school including classes and student life. Stay overnight in the dorms and participate in cool activities. Most importantly, learn more about the year that could change your life.


- WOL Youth Camp Recharge - Register your youth group for an amazing weekend that will not only be outrageously fun but also spiritually uplifting. Recharge Snow Camp is one of the highlights of youth ministry among many of the churches in Central Ontario. Taking place right on the campus of the Bible Institute, Recharge provides an oppurtunity for youth to be changed by the Word of God.

With each and every one of these events, students from the Bible Institute will be taking a major part serving in all areas of the ministry. Word of Life Events are always exciting to be a part of. For more information regarding Word of Life events click here and if you would like to be a part of the ministry by giving financially, click here.
BW

Friday, September 30, 2011

Word Studies: Judges

Class: Judges

Week #3: September 26-30
Professor: Pastor Jeff Eastwood

Assignments:
Read Judges 3x -Once in a single reading before class, and twice during the week of Judges classes. At least one of these readings must be done in a translation other than the one you normally use.
Read Judges - Such a Great Salvation by Dale Ralph Davis prior to, or during, the week of classes.
Memorize Judges 21:25



Pastor Eastwood is currently the interim lead pastor at Northside Baptist Church in Waterloo, Ontario. He is a graduate of Northland International University with Bachelor of Arts in Theology and is now working on a Master of Divinity Degree from Calvary Baptist Theological Seminary. This will be his first year teaching at WOLBI in Owen Sound. What's interesting is many of the students this year are coming from Waterloo and Kitchener and call Northside their home church. They were thrilled to have their pastor come up for a week as was he.

Judges is an interesting book and many times it is hidden away as if it is some deep, dark secret of the Bible. Filled with murder, deceit and heinous crimes, this seventh book of the Bible is the attic of the Bible. Yet, here it is, containing this record of Israel's rebellion against God and subsequent disregard for God's commands. Blatant disobedience would be at the core and the theme of Judges is clearly stated in the memory verse for the class.

"In those days, there was no king in Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes."
-Judges 21:25

When one of the students stated what he learned from the class, unknowingly, he explained how this verse is relevant to the book as a whole.

"I have been learning that Israel is just like our day now. I'm seeing the history... they keep falling into sin and they don't pass the faith onto the [next] generation. They weren't following God's Word. It was a very sinful time"
- Derek, Waterloo

It was a very sinful time. The statement alone sums it up. What can be learned from a book that has this reputation? Since Timothy says in the New Testament, "All scripture is profitable...", Judges has been placed in the Bible for a purpose.

This purpose is hinted at in the following from one of the students:

 "I learned how loving God is, in that, no matter how much sin I am in, God is always there when I repent and turn back to Him."
-Brandon, Waterloo

Judges shows us the grace of God. Every time Israel rebelled, God called them back to Himself. The Lord would raise up a judge, hence the name of the book, and that judge would bring the people back to the Lord by leading them in repentance. Then when the judge died, the people would fall into sin again. This cycle of sin, judging and repentance occurred seven times in Judges. Even the judges themselves were not the best example of godliness and fell into sin soon after Israel repented. But God's grace continually prevails and still brings people to repentance today. When asked what he was learning from Judges, Pastor Eastwood replied with the following:

"I am learning that sin is deceitful and subtle and we need the grace of God."

God's grace is a beacon of light in the darkness of Judges. This world desperately needs God's grace just as Israel did over three thousand years ago. This grace comes in the form of God's Son dying on the cross, taking the punishment of sin for every person. The message of Judges and the gospel is one and the same: repentance. The message of repentance has always been the same: turn from your sin and turn to God's grace for redemption from the punishment of sin. Let us not forget this incredible gift of salvation.

BW




Monday, September 19, 2011

Word Studies: James

This is the first of a series that will cover the classes that the students will be taking thoughout the year.

Class: James

Week #1: September 12-16

Professor: Dr. Wendell Calder

Assignments: Read Be Mature by Warren W. Wiersbe
                       Read James 7x

Key Verse: James 1:27


"Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this,
To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world."


        James is the first class that Word of Life Bible Institute, Owen Sound begins every year with. This class is the perfect start to a year of life change. Filled with practical application, James is always a favourite among students because of the relevance it has to their lives during the the year at the Bible Institute. Dr. Calder's uncanny ability to alliterate absolutely anything and everything amazes students every year. Students finished James on Thursday and Dr. Calder left for  New York to open the Word of Life Bible Institute in Schroon Lake this past weekend.


        Dr. Calder said, "God specifically taught me from James 4:6 this past week. The verse talks about the grace of God. I was reminded that although grace is what saves us (Ephesians 2:8) it is also how God provides all things for us as believers. The same grace that saves us is adequate and perfect for everything we need."


     "I will not quit; by God's grace, I can do it"
    - Dr. Wendell Calder

         Students had an opportunity to share what God has taught them this past week in James:



"Just to look again that the evidence of faith is works, looking back again at Matthew 7, good fruit versus bad fruit. Evidence needs to be here. Also makes me think that we so often look at someone and judge them and treat them differently."
-Andrew, Woodstock, ON


"God sends tests and trials to mature us into stronger Christians and also for when we are high and mighty on ourselves, He uses them to humble us.... and also the golden rule trumps all other laws. If we live by it, we don't need any other law."
-Nick, Drayton, ON


        How God uses these classes in the lives of the students every year is so awesome to see. Pray that the rest of the year will be as life changing as this very first week of classes!



For more information about WOLBI check out our website or email our Admissions Coordinator.








Friday, September 16, 2011

Opening Weekend Conference 2011

       Opening Weekend Conference at WOLBI is always a busy time of registering new students, meeting with believers in Christ and learning from God's Word. This year, as every year so far at the Owen Sound Campus, Dr. Wendell Calder brought the Word of God to the families and students that gathered four times over the weekend to hear it. Being encouraged from the Bible was definitely one of the highlights. Dr. Wendell Calder preached from Psalm 16 and the messages were the perfect beginning to the tenth year at the BI.

Dr. Wendell Calder preaches the Word














"As the opening to a year of life changing experiences for the students, this weekend begins the year with a foundation in God's Word, with which the only result can be to have the fulness of joy in the presence of the Lord." 
- Atie, Huntsville (Parent of student)

"Even better than I thought it would be."
- Lucas, Wyoming

        Just from these two comments, one can see that this weekend was truly memorable. Already evident in the lives of the students, is a desire to grow and be changed by God's Word. Great are the expectations of those involved with the coming year at the BI as to what God will do.
       
        Below is the verse upon which Dr. Calder preached the evening message on Saturday. It shows where God wants each and everyone of us to be: In His Presence.

"Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore." - Psalms 16:11


If you are interested in being a part of the great expectations for WOLBI 2012-2013 check out our website or send us an email.

BW


Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Registration Weekend 2011-2012

        Another year at the Word of Life Bible Institute has officially begun. On Friday, September 09, the students for WOLBI 2011-2012 began to arrive early in the afternoon. It was an exciting time as the dorms quickly filled up with new arrivals. Students and their families enjoyed delicious meals and evening fellowship and had the oppurtunity to sit under the teaching of Dr. Wendall Calder. Dr. Calder has taught at the opening of the Bible Institute for the past ten years here at the Owen Sound Campus. Busy as it was, the weekend was a time of getting to know each other and settling into the dorms.
    
          Students have come from all walks of life and for many reasons:


"I wanted to learn more about God and I didn't know what to do with my life, and I thought I should come here to find out."
-Tyler, Waterloo

"I came here to get a solid foundation of the Bible and to spend a year studying the Word and not have the distractions of work."
-Sarah, Alberta

"I wanted to take a year between high school and university to make sure I knew what God wanted for my life."
-Mic, New Brunswick

"[I came here] for my relationship with God and to learn English and learn the Bible."
-Esther, Quebec

        At the end of the day, the total count of students was twenty-four guys and thirteen girls. This year is going to be life-changing for many students, filled with new friendships, adventures, a deeper knowledge of God's Word, and memories that will last a lifetime. Already beginning in dorm life are discussions on faith, God and the Bible. However unprepared the students may be, they are ready to take on this year and be changed by the Word of God.


                                                                    BW

Monday, September 12, 2011

Leadership Training Week 2011



          This past week has been one of intense training not only in leadership but also in God's Word, giving the Resident Assistant (RA) candidates just an appetizer for their year at the Word of Life Bible Institute. Every September before the year at the Bible Institute begins, the Deans host this week on campus in order to choose who will be the RA's in the dorms. They observe the candidates throughout the week and make their decisions based on , among other things, their character and their leadership abilities. This past week, a total of fourteen candidates came for training week but only five would be chosen.


RA Candidates
September 2011

          The week started off the on the second of September with a barbecue at one of the staff houses. It was one of those awkward times of first meeting people that one will spend the next year with, living and growing together. It was an evening that involved fun but important lessons were learned about teamwork, leadership and communication through fellowship and crazy Dean team-building activities. Throughout the weekend and the following week the candidates attended sessions about RA responsibilities as well as being a Christian leader on campus, in the dorm, and beyond. The week was simply a great time of getting to know each other and working together. Of course, it wouldn't be complete without the fun that happens at Word of Life almost all the time. It was hard to stop laughing after an evening spent at Mr. Ward's house and the students had a great time on Wednesday with the new Assistant Dean of Men, Mr. OBoyle.

          During the week the candidates were involved in sessions in the morning and work hours in the afternoon in order to get the campus ready for the rest of the students to arrive at the end of the week. The session topics ranged from training in the Resident Assistant Manual and also reviewing the Student Handbook. Some of the sessions brought the focus in on what a leader is like and the students were also able to apply what they learned through case studies. These are some of the things the students said about the classes.

"RA training was like trying to drink too much water at once; never can get it all in."
- Jordan, Goulais River

"The teachers were amazing."
- Nathan, Goulais River

All in all the week was challenging as well as rewarding to all those involved. Finally the time came to announce those who would be appointed as the Resident Assistants for WOLBI 2011-2012. The RA candidates waited with anticipation as one by one they went into the classroom to talk to the Deans. Through careful decision and prayerful preparation, the Resident Assistants that were chosen for the coming year are the following: Benjamin Wouda, Jordan Reinke, Monica Wijnands, Timothy Fritz and Whitney Gordon. Though these were selected for the official position of RA, the remaining candidates were encouraged to be leaders in the dorm and on campus.


RA's 2011-2012
Benjamin Wouda, Jordan Reinke, Tim Fritz, Whitney Gordon, and Monica Wijnands
Some of the students shared what they learned during the training week.

"The lessons learned and the friendships made with the staff and fellow students will be foundational to a great year of  studying God's Word and growing closer in my walk with Him."
- Jonathan, Huntsville

"I enjoyed leadership week and I am going to draw from it even though I didn't get RA. I'm really glad I came; looking forward to ministering to the girls in the dorm."
- Sarah, Midland

The following is one of the passages that the candidates committed to memory during the week. It really envelopes not only what the job of the RA is but also what Christians as the children of God should be doing daily.

Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do. And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves. Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.

- 1 Thessalonians 5:11-15

Looking forward to the year, one can expect God to do great things in the lives of the students and staff.


BW

 

Thursday, July 28, 2011

SUMMER CAMP 2011 WEEKS ONE TO THREE UPDATE


FROM TEEN TO JR. HIGH SPORTS CAMP... 

...STUDENTS  WERE  MAKING  SIGNIFICANT  DECISIONS  OF  LIFE  CHANGE!

  

218 campers joined us for our first three weeks of camp, and during our teen weeks we saw a 24% increase in camper attendance (over 2010).  That's something we were very excited to see.  Scott Foreman was privileged to share with the week 2 campers during 'Bible Hour' from the book of 1 Thessalonians.  In our study together we saw that believers can live for Christ in the midst of persecution, and that we need to live godly, pure lives while we wait for the Rapture.  Gary Stairs was our week 3 speaker and shared timely messages from the timeless life of Daniel.  Gary spoke on the importance of a Word-centered life and choosing the right friends.



We also conducted a guy/girl split session during the first two weeks of camp.  In the guys' session we discussed the importance of personal purity as men.  We had testimonies from our staff on how they have been able to live out the Word of God in this area of life.  It was awesome to see guys stand at the end of the session saying they wanted to live a sexually pure life.  Rachel Foreman shared with the young ladies the importance of a life that finds total security and contentment in Christ.  Many of the young ladies were able to identify with the themes Rachel presented having to do with self-image and adopting a perception of self that aligns with the Bible.  
One young lady made this comment to Rachel after the session:  
"I attended week 1 and 2 summer youth camps and I really found your talk on searching for security very helpful. I realized that I had been trying to find security in things other than Jesus Christ. I had been going to friends, guys, and things I really shouldn't have."


As we shared the gospel on Monday nights of weeks 2 and 3, 21 teens called on Christ to save them!  Praise the Lord!  Also, 42 campers dedicated their lives to the Lord at our Campfire Dedication services.  We also saw 25 students make a decision to stay sexually pure. 

What a privilege it has been to be a part of what God is doing in the lives of Canadian young people!

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

SUMMER CAMP 2011 WEEK ONE UPDATE


SUMMER CAMP 2011 WEEK ONE UPDATE
TEEN CAMP #1 - CAMP SPEAKER: JON WARD

Summer Camp is off to a great start!  Students arrived back for training and are now pouring themselves into their various ministry roles.  We start out with 2 weeks of high school teens then roll into 3 weeks of junior high, and then 2 weeks of kids.  We have seen God do some pretty amazing things, from working in troubled teens' lives to watching record returning camper numbers.  It's amazing to be involved in a ministry like summer camp where ministry is unfolding before your eyes literally every day. 

On Monday nights this year we share the gospel with our campers.  This is a change from previous years where we were sharing the gospel on the first night of camp (Sunday).  Why the change?  Because our Canadian youth culture is becoming increasingly "post-Christian", meaning,  they're no longer coming with a Christian frame of reference for their life.  So, we, Scott and Tyler, take the first night of camp to talk about the fact that there ARE absolutes, there IS authority and there ARE answers for life.

As Scott shared the gospel on Monday night, 6 teens trusted in Christ to save them from eternal separation in a real place called hell.  6 may not seem like a lot, but that was 10% of our camp that week.  Either way , we rejoice that the gospel went forth and that we had the opportunity to participate in the Great Commission.
 
We also saw God work at our Tuesday night drama, Wednesday night campfire dedication service and Thursday night split (guys/girls) Purity session. 12 kids indicated on Wednesday night their desire to a live a life of dedication to Christ, and 18 decided to live a life of sexual purity.  We praise the Lord for how we saw Him work.

Thanks for taking the time to read this update.  Please take some time today to pray for the continued ministry of Word of Life Youth Camp and may you be blessed!

Also see Introducing Word of Life Youth Camp



Thursday, June 2, 2011

Why YOU should get an Alumni Gift Award!

Do you like free money? Do your friends like free money? Should anyone really have to ask this question? Isn't it obvious?
We all like to have a little extra money in our pockets, and Word of Life Bible Institute understands this! They've made it easy for students and our friends who are interested in the BI to get some extra money!

"But, how?" 

Well, with the Alumni Gift Award of course! Each year students are handed these little pink award slips to distribute to people we know. The "Hallelujah Chorus" resounds as we prepare to give them out to all our friends!

Fun Facts about the Alumni Gift Award:

Who it's for: anyone interested in applying to the BI in September 2011 or September 2012.

How to get one: any current or graduated student can give this award to a friend who is planning to apply to the BI for 2011 or 2012. A current student can get award slips from the admissions office at WOLBI. Alumni can print this one.

How much it's worth: this award is unique in that both the applicant AND the student giving the award receive money! The person applying will acquire $200 off their tuition (split between the two semesters) and the current or graduated student who gave the gift award will receive a check for $100 in the mail once the applicant enrolls in the September!

How it works:
*IMPORTANT* to receive this award, the award slip MUST be sent in WITH the new application.

Instructions for applicants:
Mail Application: send pink award slip in the same envelope with your application.
Online Application: if you are applying online, please email the admissions department (admissions@wol.ca, alliep@wol.ca) as soon as you have submitted your application and let them know that you have an Alumni Gift Award. Then, proceed to mail it in so we can process it!
Application Turned in at a Recharge weekend or Campus Days event: simple, just give us the award slip when you give us the application. For those of you who are wondering, YES you do get the $300 for applying at Recharge or Campus Days AND the $200 for Alumni Gift, totaling $500!!!

*The Perks*: This is a great way for  a new applicant to get an extra $200 off their tuition. Extra finances are sometimes hard to come by these days, so every little bit counts! ALSO, we students in turn get rewarded for rewarding our friends! Once the applicants enroll for the fall, Word of Life will send $100 in the mail for each gift award we handed out! Why WOULDN'T we take advantage of this opportunity! It's a win-win situation for everyone!

If you'd like to be a part of this offer, or have any questions, please contact our admissions department!
Email: AllieP@wol.ca, admissions@wol.ca, CassandraJ@wol.ca
Phone: 519-376-3516 ex. 213 or 216. Toll Free: 800-461-3503

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Staff/Student year end barbeque: saying goodbye with food and fire

On Sunday night, May 22, instead of our usual meal together here at WOLBI we had a staff and student end of the year barbecue.  All the staff was out and brought yummy desserts!  There were mixed feelings and it was both fun and sad at the same time.  No one likes to say goodbyes and we knew it was the last Sunday night as students here at WOLBI.  After we ate we went down to the gorge for a camp fire.  We all gathered around the flames for a time of praise and then we had sharing time about what God has taught us throughout our year.  The testimonies were so sweet and showed how much God can work in our lives using His Word if we let Him and keep our hearts open to changing.  There was lots of laughing and even some tears as we recounted from the year and talked about our roles this summer at camp.  It was an awesome year that helped us build a foundation for the rest of our lives.  Such a good starting place and now we need to stay on fire for God and continue to grow to become more like Him.

Here are some students comments about the camp fire and things they learned this past year:

"Man is nothing; it is all about glorifying Him."

"I learned God is super-personal and He wants to be involved in every aspect of our lives." 

"It was very encouraging and I am proud to be part of the WOLBI alumni (very soon!)."
"I was very encouraged to see all of the spiritual growth among the class."


NW